There can be some fears and misconceptions about recovery and pain after surgery—especially after hip and knee replacements. Questions like, “how should I prepare?” or “how long before I can get back to my normal activities?” often come to mind when weighing the pros and cons of a physician-recommended procedure.
We spoke with Total Joint Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Matthew Lindaman, to shed some light on the common misconceptions surrounding hip and knee replacements and what you can expect following your surgery.
Pain Concerns
One of the most common concerns that cause patients to delay their joint replacement is the pain issues after surgery. A concern and fear that Dr. Lindaman understands and hears frequently.
“It is natural to be hesitant when contemplating a joint replacement surgery. As such, many choose to suffer or endure chronic pain from joint arthritis rather than seeking out help due to their concerns and misconceptions about post-surgical pain.”
However, he shares that over the last decade, pain control after joint replacement has seen drastic improvements. “Post-operative pain is managed using multi-modal pain control – choosing medications and treatments that work together to minimize pain following your procedure,” says Dr. Lindaman. “When post-operative pain is well controlled, patients not only are more comfortable, they also heal and recover more quickly.”
Dr. Matthew Lindaman, ORA Orthopedics
Recovery Time
Another common misconception is an extended recovery period in the hospital. While that may have been true in the past, it is no longer the rule. Quite the opposite, as research now shows that patients with prolonged stays in the hospital after joint replacement surgery often times have more, not less complications.
Dr. Lindaman as well as the other ORA total joint surgeons utilize outpatient surgery and rapid-recovery protocols. “Rapid recovery protocols allow patients to start moving much sooner following surgery ideally the same day,” says Dr. Lindaman.
Patients may also be candidates for outpatient total joint replacement at our Crow Valley Surgery Center. With the use of minimally invasive techniques, modern pain protocols, and rapid rehabilitation, we can perform total joint replacements on an outpatient basis.
“Following surgery, you recover in a spacious, private room where you receive one-on-one individualized nursing care and physical therapy. Patients return home within 24 hours. This allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home, avoiding the lengthy hospital stay,” says Lindaman. Most patients return to normal activities quicker and with less plan than traditional surgery. Discussion with your physician will determine the most appropriate timeline for your specific needs following your procedure.
During recovery, Dr. Lindaman emphasizes that patients should regularly access how they are feeling post-surgery. “It is important to pay attention to your pain levels in recovery. If you feel like you are consistently above a 5 or more on a 1–10 pain scale, mention it. That pain could be a sign of infection or complication.”
Activity Levels Following Surgery
Immediately following a hip and knee replacement, patients do deal with some limitations, such as swelling, discomfort, and incision care. However, after that recovery period, patients can expect to return to their daily activities. Dr. Lindaman advises that patients start small by “taking short walks, climbing the stairs, and simply getting ready for the day.”
Over time, patients will move on to enjoy the activities and hobbies they participated in before their joint replacement. Something that Dr. Lindaman understands is vital for a happy and healthy lifestyle.
“As physicians, the best part of our jobs is knowing that we can offer patients treatment options that will significantly improve their quality of life,” shares Dr. Lindaman. “No matter your injury or condition, it is our responsibility to answer your questions, calm your fears, and provide compassionate care every step of the way.”
To learn more about the expert physicians at ORA Orthopedics and their commitment to your orthopedic health, click here.
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